15 Nov 2011

Anglican bishop of Polynesia highlights violence against women

4:27 pm on 15 November 2011

The Anglican Bishop of Polynesia says there's a disparity between beliefs and practice in Christian churches that needs to be addressed.

The Most Reverend Dr Winston Halapua was opening the National Network Meeting on the Elimination of Violence Against Women in Suva.

He says the Anglican Church's mission statement includes seeking to transform unjust structures of society, in particular eliminating violence against women and children, with change happening first within the homes of ordained leaders.

The four-day meeting organised by the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre has brought together about 100 delegates from government agencies, church groups and NGOs.

They aim to develop strategies for a more cohesive approach to overcome violence against women in Fiji communities.